This Measure of the Commission of the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO) provides for exploratory bottom pot fishing for lobster and crab in the Convention Area for the purpose of obtaining scientific data to: allow the evaluation of the long term fishery potential for a lobster and crab fishery in the Convention Area; to evaluate the possible impacts on the target stocks, associated or dependent species, and marine ecosystems; to evaluate the effectiveness of mitigation measures; and to ensure that the bottom pot exploratory fishery is developed on a precautionary and gradual basis according to the best available science. Fishing for lobster and crab, using the bottom potting method, may be conducted on seamounts or other features within the exploratory fishing boxed areas as identified in the CMM. The text further provides for the authorised vessels, management measures, data collection, marine mammals, seabirds, turtles, and other species of concern, and monitoring. The text consists of 32 Articles.
2022-05-02